Debunking 7 Common Radon Myths
Posted: October 7, 2021 by Andy

There might be an invisible killer lurking in your Akron home's basement - radon gas. Did you know that prolonged exposure to radon causes over 20,000 deaths annually? Only smoking is more dangerous!

Radon is a radioactive gas you can't smell, taste, or see. Because of this, it's essential that you have your home professionally tested regularly. Just because you're not aware of its presence doesn't mean you're in the clear. Let's take a look and dispel the myths surrounding this domestic safety issue.

Myth 1: Scientists aren't sure that radon is a significant problem.

Fact: While no one is certain about exactly how many deaths are caused by radon exposure each year, the American Medical Association, American Lung Association, and Centers for Disease Control all say the same thing - radon is responsible for thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths each year. For smokers, the risk is even higher!

Myth 2: Radon testing is difficult, expensive, and time-consuming.

Fact: It's actually not hard to test. While homeowners can test for the presence of radon themselves, testing should be conducted by a professional. Why? First, the pros are trained and certified to test properly and thoroughly. Second, we have better equipment than the average homeowner, potentially revealing a radon problem that might otherwise be missed. Either way, a radon test is easy to perform, low-cost, and won't occupy your whole day.

Myth 3: A home with a radon problem can't be fixed.

Fact: Actually, there are many solutions to this potentially dangerous problem. Radon issues can be addressed just like any other repair. That said, you'll probably want to get advice from our radon mitigation experts before you start any repair work.

Myth 4: Only certain types of homes are at risk of radon contamination.

Fact: Radon gas can accumulate in all types of homes, whether they're new or old, insulated or drafty. The main factors that determine a health threat include construction materials used, the local geology, and a few other lesser factors.

Myth 5: Radon is only a concern in some parts of the country.

Fact: While radon poisoning is more common in some areas, high radon levels have been observed in every part of the country. The only way to determine if there's a threat to your family is via proper testing.

Myth 6: If your neighbor's house has a high radon reading, your house will also.

Fact: Radon levels vary widely from place to place. Whether you're in Strongsville or Steubenville, the radon level in the Smiths' house next door has little to no impact on your home's level. The only way to rule this problem out in your home is to conduct a test.

Myth 7: Everyone should test their home's water for radon.

Fact: While it's true that radon can get into your home through its water supply, it's far more important to check the radon levels in your home's air. If your water supply comes from a well or another groundwater source, it's essential to call your home's supplier.

What Hey Neighbor Radon Mitigation can do for you

Now that we've debunked these seven radon myths, it's time to take action. At Hey Neighbor, we provide superior radon testing services from Ashtabula to Coshocton. We have the skills and equipment to identify a potential threat, and we'll perform the proper actions to reduce that threat. Testing is quick and easy, and it will protect your home and loved ones from this potentially dangerous problem.

If you're a homeowner anywhere in Northeast Ohio, call (877) 247-7661 to arrange a consultation with our experienced radon professionals. We'll do our best to help keep your family safe, because that's how neighbors should treat neighbors!